Dead Woman’s Pass on the Inca Trail

One of the most fulfilling treks to be done in Peru is one from Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Most of the tours last for 4 days, hiking at an elevation of more than 2400 meters above sea level. You will be covering a distance of 40 kilometers!

Although it seems a lot, the feeling of satisfaction when you get to the Dead Woman’s Pass is more than enough for a lifetime.

What is the Dead Woman’s Pass?

The Dead Women’s Pass is also known as “Warmiwañusqa” in the ancient Quechua language of the Incas. It is the highest point on the Inca trail to Machu Picchu. It is situated at a height of 4215 meters above sea level. That is nearly twice as high as Machu Picchu. On the second day of your journey along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, you will reach the Pass.

The name is a little exaggerated and terrifying because it involves the word “dead,” . However, even with the great altitude, it is not dangerous at all.

Yes, altitude sickness is a possibility when visiting the pass. However, it can be easily avoided by moving slowly, hydrating well, eating healthily, or taking medication to ease the symptoms, like Diamox or drinking coca tea.

So why is it called the Dead Woman’s Pass? Simply put, a woman’s appearance is what gave this location its name. More specifically, the shape of the mountain appears to be a woman lying dead on the Andes!

Is the Dead Woman’s Pass difficult to reach?

You should be ready for the challenges that Dead Woman’s Pass will give you if you plan to hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

On the first day, your journey will begin at the 82-kilometer mark. It will take you 7-8 hours to hike to Wayllabamba, where you will spend the night. Afterward, depending on your level of fitness, you will hike for 6-7 hours on the second day to reach the Dead Woman’s Pass. But remember to take as many breaks as you need and hike at your own speed while taking in the scenery.

We are not saying it’s really difficult. However, the high altitude of 4215 meters above sea level makes it challenging. So you need to be physically fit to travel here. Reaching the Dead Woman’s Pass will be daunting for even the most experienced hikers.

The views you get at the Dead Woman’s Pass, however, make all your efforts worthwhile because the Andes Mountain Range and surroundings are so breathtakingly beautiful!

Conclusion

Getting to the pass is surely challenging but remember that you will be rewarded at the end with the beautiful scenery of the Andean mountains! You must be well-prepared for the high altitude and the unpredictable weather. Pack the right kind of clothes such as sweaters, jackets, raincoats, sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, and anything you think is essential.

And you should remember that Dead Woman’s Pass is just a part of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and that the journey of discovering the mysteries of the Incan Empire does not end there.